The Mallow Park Street Party went ahead in spite of the rain,
which saw residents and their friends and relatives celebrate
the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

Cover from the elements was provided by gazeboes, but short
breaks in the rain enabled the young and old to play games on
the longest stretch of the road.

The Party Planning Committee chairman, Gavin Webster, said that
he was "delighted" that residents had been able to celebrate in
spite of the rain. "At first we were worried that we'd have to
move indoors or cancel the event altogether, but were lucky to
have enough shelter to keep everyone dry." He added, "If
anything, the unpredictable British weather added to the
authenticity of the event!"

One resident said how great it was to have had "such high
community spirit", explaining she'd made friends with "people
who are quite literally at my doorstep, but I'd never even
spoken to before".

The party soundtrack was provided by a playlist of all the
households' favourite tracks, ensuring an eclectic mix of
everything from Elvis and The Kinks to LMFAO and Rizzle Kicks.
Ann Burdett ran games, races, and an obstacle course, enjoyed by
revellers of all ages. A range of food, including a huge
barbecue and traditional Indian food, along with salads and
desserts, was served at around 5:00pm.

The Diamond Jubilee Street Party is not the first that the
Cranbrook Drive cul-de-sac has held: previous such parties were
held in 2002 for the Queen's Golden Jubilee and in 1977 for the
Silver Jubilee.

Profits made from the sale of the tickets will be donated to the
Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance.